10 Best Corded Earbuds 2026 in the United States

Apple EarPods with a 3.5mm plug offer a comfortable fit designed to match the shape of the ear, which tends to feel better for many users compared to traditional round earbuds. The sound quality is solid for wired earbuds, with engineered speakers that deliver clear audio and reduce sound loss, making music and calls enjoyable. Noise isolation is moderate; since they don’t fully seal the ear canal, they reduce some outside noise but won’t block loud environments completely.

The built-in microphone performs well for phone calls and voice commands, capturing your voice clearly. A convenient remote on the cable allows easy control of volume, playback, and calls without reaching for your device. The cable length is standard, suitable for everyday use but not overly long, which helps avoid tangling. These EarPods work with any device that has a 3.5mm headphone jack, providing wide compatibility, including phones, laptops, and gaming consoles.

The plastic build means they aren’t highly durable or water-resistant, so they require some care to avoid damage. For those seeking earbuds that combine reliable sound, comfort, and simple wired connectivity without extra features like wireless or noise cancelling, these are a dependable choice.

Apple's EarPods with USB-C plug are designed to offer a comfortable fit for many users, thanks to their shape which follows the ear's geometry rather than a simple round bud. This design tends to reduce discomfort during extended listening sessions. The sound quality is good, with internal speakers engineered to deliver clear audio and reduce sound loss, making music and calls sound better than typical basic earbuds.

The built-in microphone captures voice clearly, which is useful for phone calls or voice commands, and the in-line remote offers convenient control over volume, playback, and calls without needing to touch your device. These EarPods connect via USB-C, so they are compatible with most modern devices that support this port, including recent iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. However, they lack water resistance, so they might not be the best choice for heavy sweating or rainy conditions. The cable is retractable, which helps with portability and reduces tangling.

Noise isolation is moderate—being traditional earbuds without silicone tips, they do not block outside noise as well as in-ear models with seals. Durability is decent for everyday use, but the plastic build and non-detachable cable mean they might not withstand rough treatment over time. These EarPods are a solid choice if you want a comfortable, reliable pair of wired earbuds with good sound quality and easy device control, especially if your devices use USB-C.

The Shure SE846 PRO Gen 2 earbuds stand out for delivering premium sound quality with four high-definition drivers that separate low, mid, and high frequencies, resulting in clear and rich audio. A unique feature is the customizable frequency response using removable nozzles, letting you choose from balanced, warm, bright, or extended sound options—ideal if you like to tailor your listening experience. The earbuds also feature excellent noise isolation thanks to their secure, in-ear design and foam tips that block out outside sounds effectively, helping you focus whether you're gaming, streaming, or making calls.

Comfort-wise, they have an ergonomic, low-profile design with an angled nozzle and over-the-ear cable routing that keeps wires out of the way and feels stable during extended wear. A variety of eartips included ensures a good fit for different ear shapes. Durability is solid, with a detachable 3.5mm cable reinforced by gold-plated MMCX connectors, allowing cable replacement if needed, which adds to the product’s longevity.

The earbuds do not have water resistance, so they may not be the best choice for workouts or rainy conditions. The cable length is standard and compatible with most devices featuring a 3.5mm jack, though no Bluetooth option is available, limiting wireless convenience. Shure SE846 PRO Gen 2 earbuds suit listeners who prioritize superior audio fidelity, solid noise isolation, and customizable sound in a wired design. They cater well to audiophiles, gamers, and music lovers who want a durable, comfortable earbud but might be less suitable for those needing water resistance or wireless functionality.